While losing Matt Mills was undoubtedly a setback, it is evident that Reading FC gained more from the deal than Leicester City.
After Reading FC’s defeat in the 2011 play-off final against Swansea City, it was uncertain if they could aim for promotion again in the following years. The manner of the defeat was particularly hard for the Royals’ fans, as their team was trailing 3-0 at half-time, with Scott Sinclair scoring twice and Stephen Dobbie adding a third for the Swans. Despite two set-piece goals in the second half, including one from captain Matt Mills, and even hitting the post, Reading fell short, ending the match 3-2.
Jem Karacan’s deflected shot came agonizingly close to going in, which proved to be a pivotal moment. Shortly after, Scott Sinclair scored Swansea’s fourth goal from the penalty spot, securing a 4-2 victory at Wembley.
Despite an emphatic second-leg victory against Cardiff City in the semi-finals, Reading FC’s efforts were ultimately in vain, and it was clear that departures were imminent after the devastating loss. Zurab Khizanishvili and Mikele Leigertwood returned to their parent clubs, which was a setback. However, Leigertwood rejoined Reading permanently in the summer of 2011 following the heartbreak at Wembley.
Captain Matt Mills and Shane Long both departed, with Long securing a well-deserved move to Premier League club West Bromwich Albion after proving his worth under manager Brian McDermott.
Leicester City’s new owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, was prepared to significantly support Sven-Goran Eriksson in the transfer market. This resulted in several excellent additions, including Paul Konchesky, David Nugent, and Sean St Ledger. Srivaddhanaprabha also spent a substantial sum to acquire Matt Mills.
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